Garmin introduces new ADS-B solution

Garmin announced a new Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) solution Oct. 28 that meets FAA requirements for ADS-B Out while delivering traffic and subscription-free weather to mobile devices.

Starting at $3,995 for a system with a built-in WAAS GPS receiver, the GDL 84 does not require owners to significantly modify the panel of their aircraft or to have a multifunction display. When paired with the Flight Stream Bluetooth wireless gateway, it enables traffic and weather information to be displayed within the Garmin Pilot app on a mobile device.

“We’ve made the decision simple and beneficial for pilots who are looking for a cost-effective way to meet the requirements of ADS-B Out while receiving the benefits of ADS-B In, which does not require a significant avionics installation,” said Garmin Vice President of Aviation Sales and Marketing Carl Wolf in a media release. “Backed by our portfolio of ADS-B solutions, Garmin offers comprehensive options for each segment of general aviation. Pilots can depend on us to provide a complete, feature-rich solution, which meets the requirements of [NextGen] by December 31, 2019.”

The FAA has mandated that aircraft must be equipped with ADS-B Out by 2020 in order to operate in airspace where a Mode C transponder is currently required. The GDL 84 complies with the rule for aircraft operating below 18,000 feet in the United States and receives on the frequencies designated for both low- and high-altitude aircraft to deliver the benefits of ADS-B In.

Garmin touted the unit as a cost-effective and minimally invasive solution, as the only panel modification required is an annunciator indicating ADS-B status. A patented self-interrogation feature allows it to synchronize squawk codes with a wide range of general aviation transponders, Garmin said, eliminating the need to install an additional control panel and keep two squawk codes in sync.

Traffic and weather information are transmitted wirelessly via Flight Stream 110 or 210 to a mobile device, where Garmin’s TargetTrend relative motion technology gives a picture of aircraft trajectories to help pilots better predict potential conflicts. ADS-B surface targets are displayed on Garmin SafeTaxi airport diagrams. For an additional $450, Flight Stream 210 adds back-up attitude information. Customers may also upgrade the GDL 84 to display traffic and weather on some Garmin avionics, including the GTN 650/750/GNS 430W/530W, G500/G600, and more, for $1,995. Garmin expects the GDL 84 to receive the FAA’s Approved Model List supplemental type certification in the first quarter of 2015.